By State Rep. Brooks Landgraf
President Donald Trump literally dodged a bullet last Saturday evening in Butler, Pennsylvania in what was clearly an attempt by a dastardly gunman to assassinate the 45th President of the United States. Our nation also dodged a bullet when President Trump survived, and emerged stronger than ever, thereby preventing discord that our country hasn’t experienced since the 1860s.
If we are wise as a people — and I believe that we are — then we can take this moment of tragedy, and turn it into one of triumph.
First and foremost, I can only describe President Trump’s survival as a divine miracle. Remarkably, a slight head turn milliseconds before the shot appears have saved his life, a moment that seems almost guided by a higher power. And amidst the chaos, President Trump showed immense courage and strength — a moment in history that will be remembered forever.
Even if you are not a fan of President Trump, I believe that all Americans have to appreciate the unrest, chaos and violence that our country has avoided by President Trump’s life being spared.
Second, political violence is inconsistent with our constitutional republic because it attempts to substitute individuals’ sinister acts for the will of We, The People. That’s why I detest and condemn acts of political violence in our country, no matter who commits them.
Our differences, no matter how significant, should never lead to violence. Instead, they should inspire dialogue, understanding, and cooperation. Political rhetoric uttered by politicians and others with public platforms can cause or inspire political violence. The power that comes with political office — whether it’s immense (at the presidential level) or small (at the state representative level) comes with great responsibility.
I hope that elected officials at all levels, myself included, do better to be mindful of the words that we use when talking about our fellow Americans who also happen to be our political opponents. America is exceptional, and our political leaders should strive to be the same.
In the aftermath of the assassination attempt, several high-profile leaders have called for a “lowering of the temperature” when it comes to political rhetoric and tactics that can stoke or inspire violence. Good. I agree, and will do my part from my little corner of West Texas.
This can be a turning point for our nation as we reaffirm and commit ourselves to the principles of peace and respect. That is how we emerge triumphant. It doesn’t always mean that we will agree with each other. But it does mean that we fight hard, and fight fair, and let our differences be sorted out by We, The People at the ballot box.
Let’s also not forget about a truly innocent victim in last Saturday’s assassination attempt, which is why I also join so many others in mourning the death of Corey Comperatore, the Pennsylvania fire captain who heroically placed himself in the line of fire to shield his family from the would-be assassin’s bullets. I pray that I would have the same courage to die so honorably for my wife and child. He showed our country what “greater love” looks like.
The path forward may not be easy, but it is one we must walk together. We must seize this opportunity to triumph as a country. And as we move forward, we should remember the power of prayer and the strength it provides. In moments of darkness, faith can light our way. Together, as one nation under God, we can overcome any challenge and emerge stronger than ever before.
God bless Texas!
